For years DMR has been synonymous with dirt jumping. Since first coming on the scene in 1995, the company has been producing a number of well designed products that produced a loyal following for things like their V-series flat pedals. Already carrying a fairly large catalog of products, DMR is now aiming for Enduro with their new Alpine Division.
Built with the typical DMR flair, but designed to be light enough to reach the top step of the podium, the Alpine division is kicking off with 3 new products. The Zone wheels, Stage 1 saddle, and new Axe crankset will have you looking at DMR in a different light…
Borrowing heavily from the Praxis works bag of tricks, the Axe cranks are intended for anything from Enduro to DH riding. Coming in around 890g for the arms, BB, ring, and hardware, the Hollowform arms are matched to a 30mm spindle that uses a Praxis works bottom bracket to fit BSA, PF30, and BB30 frames. While the current crankset will use the 30mm spindle, DMR already has a 35mm version in the works with a sub 800g target weight.
This version of the crankset is fitted with a 104 BCD spider and Praxis Works Thick-Thin chainring that is removable and compatible with SRAM style direct mount chainrings which is said to drop about 100g from the weight. DMR hopes to have these available by the end of October with a European retail set for 329 Euro (U.S. TBD).
To go along with those new Axe cranks, you’re going to need a set of wheels. True to DMR style they have to be super durable without breaking the bank- the Zone wheels seem to comply. If you know DMR, you probably know Olly Wilkins. Olly said he has been flogging the new wheels and is impressed with their durability. Considering they come in around 1800g and will sell for around $560, the wide aluminum rims should prove to be a popular option for riders who are tough on wheels.
Available in 26 and 27.5″ wheel sizes, the rims measure in at 30mm ext, and 27mm internal. The welded rims are tubeless compatible using standard tape and valves.
Out of the box the hubs are compatible with 15/20mm thru axle front, and 135×12/142×12 thru axle rear and use a 6 pawl freehub body. Both wheels are laced with 32 double butted spokes.
Finally, the Stage 1 saddle is an interesting take on the standard trail saddle. A number of companies offer strap systems to mount a tube and c02 inflator to your saddle, but DMR has taken it a step further to integrate it into the seat. Totally the weight comes in at 270g, but the RideSaver strap is removable bringing it down to around 250g.
Created with a low profile, blunt nose, and flexible base, the saddle is tuned for more aggressive trail riding and uses traditional saddle rails. Available in Black/Tango, Black/LemLime, and Black/Black, retail price is set for 69.90 Euro.